Monday, March 19, 2012

Class Struggle

http://www.socialistalternative.org/about/

The site above belongs to a group named the social alternatives, of whom are described as a ‘national organization fighting in our workplaces, communities, and campuses against the exploitation and injustices people face every day.’ Their slogan ‘Bail Out Workers, Not Wall Street’ highlights their attitude towards the US government, ‘We believe the Republicans and Democrats are both parties of big business.’ In contrast they campaign ‘to build an independent, alternative party of workers and young people to fight for the interests of the millions, not the millionaires.’

The aims of the Social Alternative include some of the following, ‘Raise the federal minimum wage to $12.50/hour, adjusted annually for cost of living increases and regional differences, as a step towards a living wage for all.’ Free healthcare, and a personal favourite being to shorten the work week ‘with no loss in pay and benefits - share out the work with the unemployed and create new jobs.’

Two other points worth mentioning, was the attitude towards the Tea Party movement - something they call an 'incredible phenomenon' with 'ludicrous and crazed ideas and leadership,' that only garnered support because they took advantage of the political vacuum created by an absence of any left-wing challenge to Obama. And also, their feelings towards the lack of unionisation in America - something they feel strongly attributes towards 'increased class polarisation' and helps the popularity of Occupy America, as it provides an important catalyst.